World Press Freedom Day 2026:Kano Govt Reaffirms Commitment To Free, Responsible, Peace-Driven Media
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Kano State Government has joined the global community in commemorating this year’s World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on the 3rd of May, as proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993.
This is contained in a statement signed by the state Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs,Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya.
According to the statement, the important day served not merely as a ceremonial occasion, but as a moment for deep reflection, renewed resistance against threats to press freedom, and enhanced commitment to the ideals of a free, responsible, and independent media.
It said the theme for this year, “Shaping a Future at Peace,” underscored the vital role of the media in promoting unity, stability, and sustainable development in societies across the world.
“The Kano State Government, under Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, proudly identifies itself as a recognized media-friendly administration, grounded in openness, transparency, and mutual respect in its engagement with the press.
“This commitment has been widely acknowledged, including recognition by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) as a “Journalist-Friendly” government.
“In line with this vision, Government reiterates that the administration maintains an open-door policy with media practitioners and stakeholders. Regular dialogue with media leaders has been institutionalized, while deliberate efforts are being made to support the growth of digital journalism, particularly through engagement with digital Media practitioners,” the statement said.
It further said that the state government recognized and emphasized the importance of professionalism and ethical responsibility, especially in this era of rapidly evolving technology, and urged media practitioners urged to uphold the highest standards of journalism in the face of challenges posed by social media, including the spread of misinformation and fake news.
The Government reaffirmed that its media policy shall always be guided by respect for press freedom and would not condone any form of intimidation or suppressing the professional conduct of the Journalism practice in the state.
“As part of its broader commitment, the administration shall continue to prioritize the welfare of journalists and enhance access to timely and accurate information, thereby enabling the media to effectively carry out its constitutional role.
“The government therefore calls on journalists and media organizations to remain steadfast in promoting responsible journalism that supports peace, development, and the collective interests of the people. A free press must also be fair and development-oriented, working in partnership with government and society at large.
“Kano State Government reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding press freedom and providing an enabling environment for media practice, while urging practitioners to remain professional, objective, and dedicated to the advancement of our
society,”the statement added.